2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1987 Renault 21
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Renault 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Renault 21 would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Renault 21 (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1987 Renault 21.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1987 Renault 21 (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Renault 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1987 Renault 21 | |
| Make | Mazda | Renault |
| Model | 3 | 21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1995 cc |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2610 mm |
